A History Lover's Guide to Detroit

by Karin Risko, Rodney L. Arroyo (Photographer)

Detroit's auto heritage is known worldwide, but this fascinating city's history runs much deeper.
Step inside the tiny recording studio where Berry Gordy, a young entrepreneur who faced tremendous prejudice, created a music empire that broke down racial barriers. Tour Art Deco masterpieces so spectacular they're called "cathedrals" to commerce and finance. Walk in the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Cobo Hall, where he first delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. Join Karin Risko for an intimate tour of the city that put the world on wheels and discover an amazing history of innovation, philanthropy, social justice and culture.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Travel

176 pages, Paperback

Published November 12, 2018

Reviews

[Justine Cucchi-Dietlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great primer on local history. I plan to recommend it at work to those interested in Detroit sightseeing and history but don't know where to start.

[MattA · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic overview of historic locations around the city of Detroit. While it covers no specific location or topic in great depth (most entries are only a couple of paragraphs long) and while the entire book is less than 200 pages, it is impressive in its scope, in the number of locations discussed. The book is organized by neighborhoods, with specific chapters on Downtown, Midtown, Corktown, Belle Isle, and then two final chapters that cover a variety of locations spread across the city and beyond. The book uses maps to identify all of the locations discussed, a great help if one plans to visit these locations. A generous helping of photographs enhances the text. I unreservedly recommend this to anyone interested in the local history of Detroit. I originally read this book from the library but intend to buy my own copy for future reference.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A History Lover’s Guide to Detroit was as much a trip down memory lane as a travel guide. It is fun to read about so many familiar places and to learn about places I am as not familiar with or grew up just hearing about.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Makes me dream of a trip to Detroit with a history guide! I want to see more of Detroit, for sure!